Photinia: Aphids

Photo by: A.L. Antonelli

Use IPM (Integrated Pest Management) for successful plant problem management.

Biology Aphids on photinia are variously colored, from yellowish or greenish to black. They are soft-bodied insects less than 1/8" long. Aphids often feed in large groups and typically are found on new growth, including both leaves and shoots. Heavy infestations can cause yellowing or wilting of foliage. New growth may be stunted. Aphids often produce honeydew, a sweet, sticky material that may attract ants or become covered with a growth of dark sooty mold.

Management Options

• Control honeydew-feeding ants, which may protect aphid colonies from predators.
• Encourage natural enemies of aphids including ladybird beetles, lacewings, syrphid fly larvae, and parasitic wasps. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill these beneficial insects.
• Hand-wipe or prune to control small, localized infestations (when practical).
• Provide proper nutrition. High levels of nitrogen in the foliage encourage aphid reproduction. Switch to a slow-release or low-nitrogen fertilizer.
• Wash aphids from foliage with a strong stream of water.

Revision Date:4/10/2013

If you choose to use a pesticide, some examples of products that are legal in Washington are listed below.

Always read and follow all label directions.


• All Seasons Horticultural & Dormant Spray Oil Conc/Organic Gardening
• Bayer Advanced Garden Power Force Multi-Insect Killer Conc
• Bayer Advanced Garden Tree & Shrub Insect Control Conc
• Bonide Systemic Insect Control
• Concern Insect Killing Soap Conc
• Green Light Neem Conc [Organic]
• Hi-Yield Dormant Spray
• Lilly Miller Superior Type Spray Oil
• Ortho RTU Rose & Flower Insect Killer 1
• Ortho Volck Oil Spray Dormant Season Insect Killer Conc
• Safer Brand BioNEEM Multi-Purpose Insecticide & Repellent Conc/Organic Gardening [Organic]
• Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap Conc II [Organic]
• This list may not include all products registered for this use.